RIO DE JANEIRO &GT;&GT; Brazil and Germany are two of the most decorated teams in football, with eight World Cup titles between them. Both have their share of players among the all-time greats, and both entered this tournament being touted among the main favorites.

So even without the injured Neymar, today's semifinal in Belo Horizonte provides an intriguing matchup:

Goalkeepers: Manuel Neuer has been one of Germany's best players this tournament. The Bayern Munich No. 1 is widely regarded as one of the top keepers in the world. Julio Cesar is arguably not quite the player he was during his best years at Inter Milan, but he's been solid at this World Cup — he has yet to concede more than one goal in a game.

Advantage: Germany

Defense: Brazil has always been known for its attacking play, but this World Cup squad arguably has more impressive names in defense. However, the team's best defender — captain Thiago Silva — is suspended for the semifinal. Germany's defense looked awful against Algeria, and coach Joachim Loew responded by dropping center back Per Mertesacker for the next game and moving captain Philip Lahm to right back. The changes worked, and Germany looked like its old solid self against France.

Advantage: Brazil

Midfield: Germany's midfield has been given a big boost by Bastian Schweinsteiger returning to full fitness after a knee injury. Brazil's midfield will likely have a new look for this game as Luiz Scolari is expected to replace Neymar with a midfielder — probably Willian.

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Advantage: Germany

Attack: Without Neymar, the forward line is a glaring weakness. Fred has struggled. Hulk has looked lively but has yet to score, while Jo has failed to make an impact. Germany, meanwhile, has Thomas Mueller and Miroslav Klose. Mueller has four goals in Brazil, while the 36-year-old Klose has a chance to break the World Cup scoring record.

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